Rowing machines, also known as ergometers or "ergs," are exercise machines that simulate the motion of rowing a boat. There are several types of rowing machines available, each with its own unique features and benefits and here are the most common types of rowing machines that you will see on sale both in stores and online platforms
Air Resistance Rowing Machines
Air resistance rowing machines are the most common type of rowing machine. They use a flywheel that spins when you pull the handle, generating resistance by creating wind resistance. The harder you pull, the more resistance you will feel. Air resistance rowing machines are typically affordable and provide a smooth, natural rowing motion.
View also: Popular Rowing Machines here
Water Resistance Rowing Machines
Water resistance rowing machines simulate the feeling of rowing on water. These machines use a paddle inside a water tank to create resistance. The resistance is determined by the amount of water in the tank and the speed at which you row. Water resistance rowing machines are often more expensive than air resistance machines, but they provide a more realistic rowing experience.
Check out: Concept 2 Rowing Machine @ Amazon here
Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
Magnetic resistance rowing machines use magnets to create resistance. The strength of the resistance is determined by the distance between the magnets and the flywheel. Magnetic resistance rowing machines are often quieter than air or water resistance machines, making them ideal for home use.
Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machines
Hydraulic resistance rowing machines use pistons or cylinders filled with oil or water to create resistance. The resistance is determined by the amount of pressure you apply to the pistons or cylinders. Hydraulic resistance rowing machines are often more compact than other types of rowing machines, making them ideal for small spaces.
Combination Resistance Rowing Machines
Combination resistance rowing machines combine two or more types of resistance, such as air and magnetic resistance or water and magnetic resistance. These machines allow you to adjust the resistance to your preferred level and provide a more versatile workout. Each type of rowing machine has its own unique features and benefits. When choosing a rowing machine, consider your budget, workout goals, and space limitations to determine which type of machine is right for you.
Cheaper Rowing Machines
Hydraulic Rowing machines and Air resistance rowing machines tend to be the cheapest type of rowing machine. They are typically more affordable than water resistance or magnetic resistance rowing machines, and they offer a smooth and natural rowing motion. Air resistance rowing machines are also widely available and can be found at many fitness equipment stores or online retailers. However, the price of a rowing machine can vary depending on its quality, features, and brand, so it's important to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.
Expensive Rowing Machines
Water resistance rowing machines tend to be the most expensive type of rowing machine. These machines use a paddle in a water tank to create resistance, which provides a realistic rowing experience. Water resistance rowing machines are often more expensive than other types of rowing machines because of the cost of the water tank and the materials needed to create a durable and functional machine.
However, the price of a water resistance rowing machine can vary depending on its brand, quality, and features. Other factors that can affect the price of a rowing machine include its size, weight capacity, and additional features such as workout programs, data tracking, and adjustable resistance.
View also: Great Value Rowing Machines here
Popular brands of Rowing Machines
There are many popular brands of rowing machines, each with its own unique features and benefits and here are some of the most popular brands of rowing machines that people tend to buy for the most reliable in terms of performance and fitness results
Concept2
Concept2 is one of the most well-known brands of rowing machines. They are known for their high-quality, durable, and reliable machines. Concept2 offers both air resistance and water resistance rowing machines, and their products are often used in gyms and rowing clubs around the world.
WaterRower
WaterRower is a brand that specializes in water resistance rowing machines. Their machines are known for their sleek design and realistic rowing experience. WaterRower machines are made of solid wood and are often used for home workouts or in high-end fitness studios.
Stamina
Stamina is a brand that offers a range of affordable rowing machines. Their products include air resistance, magnetic resistance, and hydraulic resistance rowing machines. Stamina machines are often compact and easy to store, making them ideal for small spaces.
Sunny Health & Fitness
Sunny Health & Fitness is a brand that offers a variety of affordable fitness equipment, including rowing machines. They offer both air resistance and magnetic resistance rowing machines, and their products are often praised for their ease of use and durability.
ProForm
ProForm is a brand that specializes in fitness equipment for home use. They offer a range of rowing machines, including air resistance and magnetic resistance machines. ProForm machines often come with additional features such as workout programs, data tracking, and adjustable resistance.
Reviews
These are just a few of the many popular brands of rowing machines available on the market. When choosing a brand, consider factors such as quality, features, and price to determine which brand is right for you. It's also a good idea to read reviews and compare products before making a purchase.
Check out: JLL® R200 Rowing Machine @ Amazon here
Pros and Cons of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
Magnetic resistance rowing machines use magnets to create resistance, and they are a popular type of rowing machine. These are some of the pros and cons of magnetic resistance rowing machines that are worth noting…
Pros of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Quiet: Magnetic resistance rowing machines are often quieter than other types of rowing machines, making them ideal for home use.
2, Adjustable resistance: Magnetic resistance rowing machines allow you to adjust the resistance level, so you can customize your workout to your fitness level.
3, Smooth rowing motion: Magnetic resistance rowing machines offer a smooth and consistent rowing motion, which can be easier on the joints than other types of rowing machines.
4, Versatile: Many magnetic resistance rowing machines come with additional features such as workout programs, data tracking, and adjustable footrests, which can help you get a more versatile workout.
Cons of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Limited resistance range: Magnetic resistance rowing machines may not provide as much resistance as air or water resistance rowing machines, which can be a disadvantage for advanced users who need higher levels of resistance.
2, Less realistic rowing experience: Magnetic resistance rowing machines may not provide the same realistic rowing experience as water resistance rowing machines, which can be a drawback for those who want to simulate the feel of rowing on water.
3, May require maintenance: Magnetic resistance rowing machines may require periodic maintenance to ensure that the magnets are functioning properly, which can be a hassle for some users.
Versatile
Overall they are a good option for those who want a quiet, versatile, and adjustable rowing machine. However, they may not provide as much resistance as other types of rowing machines, and they may not offer the same realistic rowing experience as water resistance rowing machines. As with any type of fitness equipment, it's important to consider your fitness goals, budget, and personal preferences before choosing a magnetic resistance rowing machine.
Pros and Cons of Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machines
Hydraulic resistance rowing machines use pistons or cylinders filled with hydraulic fluid to create resistance, and they are a popular type of rowing machine. These are some of the pros and cons of hydraulic resistance rowing machines that are definitely worth pointing out from what we have seen
Pros of Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Affordable: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines are often the most affordable type of rowing machine, making them a good option for those on a budget.
2, Compact and lightweight: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines are often compact and lightweight, making them easy to store and move.
3, Adjustable resistance: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines allow you to adjust the resistance level, so you can customize your workout to your fitness level.
4, Low impact: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines offer a low-impact workout, which can be easier on the joints than other types of rowing machines.
Cons of Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Limited resistance range: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines may not provide as much resistance as air or water resistance rowing machines, which can be a disadvantage for advanced users who need higher levels of resistance.
2, Less realistic rowing experience: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines may not provide the same realistic rowing experience as water resistance rowing machines, which can be a drawback for those who want to simulate the feel of rowing on water.
3, Inconsistent resistance: The resistance level of hydraulic resistance rowing machines can vary depending on the temperature of the room and the age of the machine, which can be frustrating for some users.
4, Noisy: Hydraulic resistance rowing machines can be noisy, which can be a problem for those who want a quiet workout.
Check out: JTX Freedom Rowing Machine @ Amazon here
Pros and Cons of Air Resistance Rowing Machines
Air resistance rowing machines use a flywheel with fan blades to create resistance, and they are a popular type of rowing machine. So here are some of the pros and cons of air resistance rowing machines that you should be aware of…
Pros of Air Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Adjustable resistance: Air resistance rowing machines allow you to adjust the resistance level, so you can customize your workout to your fitness level.
2, Realistic rowing experience: Air resistance rowing machines provide a realistic rowing experience, as the resistance level increases as you row harder and faster, simulating the feel of rowing on water.
3, Versatile: Many air resistance rowing machines come with additional features such as workout programs, data tracking, and adjustable footrests, which can help you get a more versatile workout.
4, High resistance range: Air resistance rowing machines can provide very high levels of resistance, making them a good option for advanced users who need a challenging workout.
Cons of Air Resistance Rowing Machines
1, Noisy: Air resistance rowing machines can be quite loud, which can be a problem for those who want a quiet workout.
2, Large and heavy: Air resistance rowing machines are often larger and heavier than other types of rowing machines, making them harder to store and move.
3, Expensive: Air resistance rowing machines can be more expensive than other types of rowing machines, making them a less accessible option for some users.
4, Maintenance: Air resistance rowing machines require periodic maintenance to ensure that the flywheel and fan blades are functioning properly, which can be a hassle for some users.
View also: Budget low priced Rowing Machines here
Community Feedback
What is your own preferred type of rowing machine and why? If possible, please let us all know by leaving a comment in the comment box section provided below – so that others in the wider fitness community can learn also…
Recent Comments